The Ukrainian military has received a powerful new tool for water-based operations: the "Black Widow 2" river drone. Designed specifically to meet the needs of Ukraine's defense forces, this compact unmanned vehicle offers a versatile solution for logistics, reconnaissance, and the destruction of enemy boats along rivers.
Despite its small size, Black Widow 2 boasts impressive technical capabilities. At just one meter long and weighing only 8 kilograms, the drone is easy to transport and operate. It can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h and cover distances of up to 10 kilometers on a single charge. While in active operation, it can function for several hours, and when idle, it can remain in standby mode for days, always ready for deployment.
One of its standout features is the ability to carry a payload of up to 3 kilograms. This allows the drone to transport explosives for taking out Russian boats or to carry essential supplies for logistical operations. Equipped with a rotating camera, Black Widow 2 offers continuous surveillance capabilities. The camera can rotate both horizontally and vertically, providing a wide field of view crucial for reconnaissance missions. Additionally, its night vision optics enable effective operation in low visibility conditions.
The creation of the Black Widow 2 was driven by the need to counter the tactics employed by Russian occupiers, including the transfer of forces to islands in the Dnipro River. The drone plays an essential role in asymmetric warfare, where speed, maneuverability, and the ability to quickly adapt technological advancements are critical.
The cost of each drone is approximately 100,000 UAH, making it relatively affordable for mass production. The Ukrainian manufacturer is already capable of producing over 100 drones per month, enabling rapid scaling of their deployment.
Given the current situation and the increasing use of drone technology, devices like the Black Widow 2 are poised to become an integral part of future river-based operations. They offer the potential to minimize risks to crews and significantly enhance the effectiveness of military tasks.
